4th Annual Latin American Parade and Festival Grand Marshal and Community Marshal Selected

The Grand Marshal and Community Marshal for the 4th Annual Latin American Parade and Festival have been selected. This year’s Grand Marshal is Eloy Oakley, President of Long Beach City College. The Community Marshal is Luis Lemus, owner of Prospector Restaurant and Bar.

“This is a perfect day to bring the whole family downtown and enjoy terrific Latin American food, music, and culture,” said Vice Mayor and First District Councilmember Robert Garcia, who initiated the Parade and Festival in 2009. “I especially want to thank our parade Marshals for their participation.”

The Grand Marshal is chosen from nominees who are leaders in the City of Long Beach and in Latino community. President Oakley was recognized for his many years of service to the City as an educator. He has maintained LBCC as one of the best educational values in the country, even during very difficult economic times.

“I am honored to have been selected for this celebration of Hispanic culture,” said LBCC President Eloy Ortiz Oakley. “I am especially proud to represent Long Beach City College which has one of the largest Latino student populations in the state.”

The Community Marshal is chosen from nominated members of the community who have shown dedication to improving the City at the grassroots level. Mr. Lemus has been hailed by supporters of arts and culture for transforming a struggling saloon into an anchor for the local music scene, giving many young bands their start, and working hard to support local talent.

Past Community Marshals include Jessica Quintana of CENTRO CHA and artist Gregorio Luke.

The Fourth Annual Long Beach Latin American Parade and Festival takes place Saturday, September 8, in downtown Long Beach, beginning at 3pm with the parade down Pine Avenue from 6th Street, and then continuing with the festival in City Place until 9:00pm.

The Parade and Festival are sponsored by Wal-mart, Downtown Long Beach Associates, the Office of Vice Mayor Garcia, and many other local stakeholders.

The parade will feature more than 40 entries and more than 1000 participants, including Ballet Folklorico Dancers, Long Beach Fire and Police Departments, numerous musical acts, and many others.

The festival will take more than two City blocks with dozens of vendors that will include Latin American art, handmade clothing & jewelry, dance instructors, community groups and delicious Latin American Cuisine.